Were there makes and models that were popular among the cowboys, gold miners and merchants, say from around 1850 to 1904? All I know is mainly from watching U.S. and Italian cowboy movies where I see without knowing fact from fiction that the heroes and bad guys wore mostly HC models. I know of at least two watch sellers, Cornell and Tucker, in San Francisco. What is the likely historical fact?

Probably 18 size, gold filled or silveroid case (cowboys and miners were very poorly paid), low jewel count.

If it helps, try to picture yourself in Deadwood and what kind of watch you might want. Possible the merchants had a few, maybe the Preacher, or the Doctor.

Sundial would have been adequate I think.

No sundial even today, Michael. The Deadwood scene photo posted by David is just like conditions today, about one hour from where I live, and snow, no sunshine, is the forecast. But I wonder if the inexpensive watches could run well in the sub freezing conditions that existed then and now.

assuming the watch was in a pocket most of the time, sure. body warmth and all that.

Actually Mike I have to agree with you. Even the railmen had extremes like this to deal with, and "Body Temperature" was the rule of the day!

not sure if its any help but the pocket watch found on johnny ringo's body was an open face waltham model 1857 im not sure but i think the serial number was 9448